Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what classes to take?

Program sheets are available for all of the certificates and associate degrees offered at Salem Community College. These sheets are a recommended sequence to progress through your program. Course and program offerings vary from semester to semester. Please refer to the course schedule for specifics. Registration appointments with your advisor are available every semester for all students who need assistance with course selection.

What is a typical course load?

A full-time student must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours for the semester. Eleven (11) credits or less are considered a part-time student.

What is a pre-requisite?

A pre-requisite is a course which must be taken before you can enroll in another course.

Can I take classes out of the recommended order?

Courses are usually offered according to the sequence on the program sheet. Courses taken out of sequence may delay graduation. If you decide to take a course out of sequence, you should consult with an advisor to ensure you can graduate on time.

What is the maximum number of credits I can enroll in one semester?

A student can take up to 19 credits during the semester without prior approval.

When is add/drop?

For 15W classes, the add/drop deadline is 7 days after the first day of the 15W term. For 7W1 classes, the add/drop deadline is 2 days after the start of the 7W1 term. For 10W classes, the add/drop deadline is 2 days after the start of the 10W term. For 7W2 classes, the add/drop deadline is 2 days after the start of the 7W2 term. For a list of add/drop dates, see the Academic Calendar.

What does it mean to withdraw from a class?

Withdrawing from a course happens if you need to drop out of a course after the add/drop deadline. After the add/drop deadline, you must withdraw from a course to avoid receiving a grade of F or FA. An official course withdrawal appears on your transcript as a grade W, which does not factor into your GPA. You can withdraw from a course by completing the Course Withdrawal form in Student Affairs, Donaghay Hall, Room 101.

If I take a class again, is the old grade removed from my transcript?

The original grade you received for the class will always remain on the transcript. However, the new grade you receive for the class will be the grade used to calculate your cumulative grade point average (GPA) and will be shown in [brackets].

Can I receive a waiver for HSC200 if I have a current CPR and First Aid certification?

Yes, if it is from an approved organization. Students should see their advisor to submit a course waiver request form. Requests are reviewed and approved/denied by the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs.

Can an advisor or faculty member approve a course substitution?

No. Advisors and faculty members can recommend it, but it must be approved by an academic dean in the Office of Academic Affairs, TIL-215 in Tillis Hall.

How do I change my major?

Students can change their major by submitting a Declaration of Major form. Forms are available in Student Affairs, Donaghay Hall, Room 101.

Can I dual major?

Students can dual major by submitting a Declaration of Major form. Forms are available in Student Affairs, Donaghay Hall, Room 101. Students wanting to earn two degrees must complete at least 15 credits in one degree program that are different from the second degree program and complete all general education requirements. Students wanting to earn a degree and certificate must complete all program and general education requirements. Students wanting to earn two certificates must complete at least 6 credits in one certificate program that are different from the second certificate program and meet all general education requirements.

How do I obtain a copy of my transcript?

An unofficial copy of your transcript can be found in the Self-Service portal under the Grades tab. An official copy can be requested on the website, www.getmytranscript.com. There is a small fee for an official transcript.

If I have a hold on my account, may I see an advisor for course selection?

Students can receive academic advising with a hold on their account. However, they will not be permitted to register for courses or obtain a copy of their transcript.

What is Canvas?

Canvas is Salem Community College's online learning platform where instructors and students can access course materials and communicate online.

What should I do if I am close to completing my degree and graduating?

Students are advised to consult with their advisor to see if they meet all graduation requirements prior to submitting a Graduation Application. Graduation Application packets are available in Student Affairs, DON-101 in Donaghay Hall. There is no fee if the application is submitted by the deadline. A $35 fee applies if submitted by the late deadline.